Hyundai Motor America picks Zuchowski as new CEO

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 27 (Yonhap) -- Hyundai Motor America (HMA) said Friday a former Ford Motor manager has been named the president and CEO of the subsidiary of South Korea's largest carmaker.

John Krafcik will step down from the post at the end of this year after a five-year stint, succeeded by David Zuchowski, currently executive vice president of sales, effective Jan. 1, HMA said in a press release.

It added Krafcik is quitting "upon the successful completion of his contract."

Incoming CEO Zuchowski began his career at Ford Motor Co. in 1980. He worked at Mazda North America and joined Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Costa Mesa, Calif., in 2007.

"I am both humbled and excited to lead Hyundai Motor America into the next chapter by continuing to build on John's great legacy, and focusing on what matters most -- building the highest quality, safest and most diverse fleet of models that customers love," said Zuchowski.

Hyundai automobiles have enjoyed growing sales in the U.S. market, apparently driven by aggressive assurance and warranty services.

Zuchowski, together with the outgoing CEO, played a pivotal role in the increased popularity of Hyundai cars in the U.S., according to Hyundai officials.

Zuchowski has been "instrumental in our growth, especially among our dealers... we are confident that he is the right choice to build on John's momentum and take Hyundai to new and greater heights," said Im Tak-uk, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor Co.